gms | German Medical Science

Objective: Cavernous Sinus Meningioma is the most frequent benign tumor treated with Gamma Knife Radiosurgery; however the assessment of its efficacy and safety in slow growing tumors is an ongoing process, requiring analysis of long-term results. This study involves the experience of several European Gamma Knife Centres. We report on the efficacy of GKRS for the treatment of meningiomas, clinical and radiological control and side effects.

Methods: This report reviews retrospectively the material drawn from a cohort of over 1,000 benign meningiomas treated with GKRS. A visit of the centres recruited was performed by the first Author. A descriptive analysis is presented.

Results: 1,222 patients harbouring exactly 1,272 meningiomas treated in fifteen institutions recruited were evaluated. The median age was 54 years (range 6–89 years). The median tumour volume was 7.90 ccm (range 0.5–56.4 ccm). The median tumor margin dose to the 50% isodose line was 14.2 Gy (range 4–45Gy). The median radiological follow-up was 61 months The detailed results from 1115 meningiomas (87.7%) were available for analysis. The volume of treated tumors decreased in 613 lesions (55%) did not change in 433 lesions (39%) and increased in 70 lesions (6%). The temporary morbidity rate after GKRS was 4.9% and the permanent morbidity rate was 5.3%. The actuarial control rate was 97.6% at 5 years post GKRS.

Conclusions: GKRS is a safe and not invasive method of treatment of meningiomas and the large number analysed confirms a high tumor control and low morbidity rate even after a long-term follow-up period.